The beautiful wedding of Gurpreet and Aman

Gurpreet and Aman got married in the summer of 2015 in a beautiful ceremony at Gravesend Gurdwara followed by a fun reception at Quendon Hall. But before we talk about all that, lets talk about the Bride and Groom.

The Bride

Aman is a fun and bubbly bride! A beautiful smile and an infectious laugh! She makes an great partner to the groom (Gurpreet). She also happens to live a stones throw away from Gravesend Gurdwara! When I say a stone’s throw, quite literally a stone’s throw. I know that in the future when I am in the area, I can pop in for a cup of tea with the family!

On the morning of the wedding, Aman was surrounded by her family and friends who made her feel at ease on her big day. The house was a hive of activity with people getting ready, preparing items for the Wedding and generally a place just getting ready for what was coming ahead. The bride was a mixture of happiness and a few nerves, but really looking forward to her special day. Her dress was a beautiful traditional red lengha in which she looked amazing! Gurpreet just didn’t know what he was in store for.

With her make up done and her dress on, it was time for the walk (ok, she was driven in her wedding car) to the venue. A bride can’t walk to her own wedding now!

The Groom

Now Gurpreet is Aman’s Ying to her Yang. He is tall to her short (quite literally!). But he is such a grounded man it was a pleasure and honour shooting this wedding for him and Aman. His morning shots were taken by my good friends Shaamil and Jazz who captured the fun and excitement in the Groom’s house.

The groom’s attire was a traditional Sherwani in which he looked every part the King. A real strong and imposing groom. Set with his Kirpan (sword) he could have passed for an Indian Wedding Model! While the groom lived close to the Wedding Venue (Gravesend Gurudwara), it wasn’t quite as close as Aman. His wedding car (a bad ass black Roll Royce Phantom!) took him to the wedding in true style.

Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara Gravesend

The Gravesend Gurdwara is famous for its beauty and serenity. Opened in May 2011 just off Sadington Street and next to the community’s sports and education centres. It serves the local Sikh Community, with devotees come from far and wide to worship here. Thousands of devotees come from all around the world to pay their respects at this beautiful Gurdwara. Looking at the Gurdwara, it reflects the Indian Culture Origins while at the same time provide facilities suitable for Sikhs living in modern day Britain.

While the Gurdwara was built using local construction workers, much of the detailed stoneworrk and woodcaring was completed in India using specialists companies identified with relevant expertise.

The Sikh Wedding Ceremony

The Baraat arrived with lots of fanfare. With Gurpreet standing out, all eyes were on him. The families met in front of the Gurdwara for the Milni ceremony and after formalities were completed, everyone went inside the Gurdwara for some breakfast. With everyone’s heads covered in the colour representing their family, the colour added to the sense of celebration. Bright colours everywhere and with the sun shining, this was turning into a beautiful Sikh Wedding.

The wedding (Anand Karaj – the blissful union) took place in the Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale Diwan Hall (Diwan Hall 3). A beautiful hall which has a stunning mural window behind the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Gurpreet entered the hall and paid his respects by bowing his head to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and awaited the entrance of his Bride – Aman. Her entrance was accompanied by her brothers and close family. She looked the amazing bride that she was. She, too, paid her respects to the Guru Granth Sahib Ji and then sat side by side with Gurpreet at the front of the hall.

Ardas was observed by Gurpreet’s and Aman’s parents standing to confirm their blessings have been given for the marriage to take place which was followed by the hymn Keeta Loree-ai Kaam. Gurpreet and Aman finished the ceremony by completing the 4 Lavans (Wedding Rounds) around the Guru Granth Sahib Ji. With the Groom leading and the Bride following holding the Pall in her hands and assisted by her brothers to take her round.

The Civil Wedding Ceremony

Following the Anand Karaj, Gurpreet and Aman had their Civil Wedding Ceremony in the Lecture Theatre on the first floor of the Gurudwara. This gave a beautiful backdrop to the couple and allowed their close family to observe them saying their vows and confirming the marriage in British Law.

It allowed us to take a beautiful first image of their couple portraits!

Parklands Quendon Hall – Reception Venue

Following the Sikh Wedding, everyone made their way to the reception venue at Parklands Quendon Hall. A beautiful 17th Century mansion house set in 100 acres of picturesque deer park. It is a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is one of the most prestigious venues in Essex.

It has awe-inspiring surroundings, a relaxed and intimate ambience which made it the perfect place for Gurpreet and Aman to have their reception party. The party was held in the silk lined Pavilion which can accommodate up to 650 guests. Adjoining the Manor House, it gave everyone ample space to enjoy the reception celebration. With chandeliers and a starlight ceiling, the Pavilion was ready to host the party!

Aman and Gurpreet entered with their family and accompanied by their Dhol players. They cut their quirky cake (from Cupcake Avenue) and started their party!

The Doli

The Doli took place in the Drawing Room. It started off with the Best man having to be forced off the seat next to the groom – quite literally – by the bridesmaids! An event that he will never forget as he had at least 6 ladies quite literally pull him off the chair on which he was sat!

Doli’s are always emotional and it signifies the Bride leaving her parent’s home and starting her life at the groom’s home.

Thank you!

Thank you for taking the time to view and read this blog post. If you are currently organising your Wedding and looking for a easy natured, professional photographer who takes natural photos then do not hesitate in contacting me for prices and ideas for your wedding events.